According to the Gun Violence Archive, there were more than 450 firearm deaths and over 1,000 firearm injuries in Pennsylvania in 2024. A proven method to combat gun violence is the gun violence task force model comprised of attorneys and field agents that supplement local law enforcement in their efforts to combat firearm crimes.
 
To ensure that all counties with high rates of firearm deaths receive the support they need, I will be introducing legislation to establish the Gun Violence Task Force in every county that suffers from high rates of firearm deaths. The task force and accompanying jurisdiction will only be an option for counties when gun violence reaches a certain threshold level. These joint state and local task forces will be responsible for investigating and prosecuting firearm related crimes. The Attorney General will be provided with concurrent prosecutorial jurisdiction over any criminal action or proceeding when appropriate.
 
To maintain transparency and determine the effectiveness of these task forces, the Attorney General will be required to make annual reports on the operation of the task force, the number of convictions and arrests, and the number of firearms seized by each task force.
 
Please join me in keeping our communities safe from the growing threat of gun violence.